Extractions

Dr. Commarato may determine that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed and may have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.

To avoid these complications, in most cases, Dr. Commarato will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as if space maintainers are needed for an extracted tooth.

The Extraction Process

At the time of extraction Dr. C will need to numb your child’s tooth, jaw bone and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.

During the extraction process your child will feel a lot of pressure. This is from the process of firmly rocking the tooth in order to widen the socket for removal.

Your child will feel the pressure without pain as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves stopping the transference of pain, yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected.

After Tooth Extraction

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Biting on a cotton roll (band-aid) for 30-45 minutes immediately after the appointment will stop the bleeding. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, continue to use the cotton rolls.

After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 24-48 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.

After the tooth is extracted your child may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as recommended. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.

Use over-the-counter pain medication as recommended.  If antibiotics are prescribed, have your child continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drinking lots of fluids and eating nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction is important. Your child may resume their  normal diet in 24-48 hours.

It is important for your child to resume his/her normal dental routine after 24 hours, with your assistance. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. This will speed healing and help keep their mouth fresh and clean.

Please call our office if you have any questions or concerns.